[NJARC] A swap meet for "all" of us.

[njarc@mailman.qth.net]

Greetings from Arkansas,

There seems to be two issues here.  Helping the club grow in a direction
determined by the majority and the manpower to accomplish this growth. 
During my term as fearless leader, the membership wanted more club
sponsored events, but getting volunteers for the various committees was
difficult at best.  There were always the same members who would
volunteer for setup, taking money, parking, cleanup, etc.  In the end,
the executive board became the permanent radio events committee.  I
assume this is still the case.

I see no problems with NJARC having several radio events per year, or
even one a month, if there is the interest and manpower to make it work. 
I agree with all of John's ideas with one exception to the "Lamans
Start".  If you can't get there early enough to find the bargains, then
don't expect everyone else to wait for you.  We tried this once at
Heightown, but it was uncontrollable.  After the tables were set up and
the wares displayed, you couldn't get anyone to leave the building and
wait outside for the "official start" time.  The only benefit I see of
the shotgun start is it allows the sellers to trade amongst themselves.

If John is right and there is sufficient interest, he should head a
committee of like minded members to find the location he described.  Once
located, he can present the findings to the membership.  Growth is a good
thing but don't make this a personal issue.  Do what is best for the club
and leave the personal issues at home.

Hot Springs, a city of 35,000 has two ham clubs.  Two because of a rift
that got out of hand.  All but one of the original members who had a
personal hand in this are now silent keys.  Talks are now underway to
join under one name.  I think it has been about 30 years in the making.

Regards,
Jim